Sarah Sever, Assistant Library Director

Public Libraries succeed when they provide access to materials and services that reflect existing needs within their communities. This includes the entire population, which is a challenge that Neuse Regional Libraries consistently embrace. When NRL received a Libraries Transforming Communities (LTC): Accessible Small and Rural Communities Grant from the American Library Association, it was a fantastic opportunity to examine how services to senior citizens could be improved, particularly in La Grange, NC, where the majority of the population is over 50 years of age.

A key concern for these individuals is preventing and dealing with various forms of memory loss. As a result, NRL used funds from the LTC grant to purchase items for Memory Kits. These kits are available for check out and contain activities and materials that stimulate brain activity and encourage conversations between those experiencing memory loss and their loved ones. 

The La Grange Public Library will also be partnering with the North Carolina Museum of Art to present Creative Impressions, a program that guides those experiencing memory loss and their caregivers through fun and mindful observations of artwork from the Museum’s collection, as well as sensory engagements and an exciting art-making activity.  This 90-minute program will be held on Wednesday, May 8 at 10:30 am. Seating is limited, so please call (252) 566-3722 and register to attend.  

The Library also partners with the Alzheimer’s Association and Lenoir County Council on Aging to regularly provide new services and resources for the public. For more information about library programming across Lenoir, Jones, and Greene Counties, please call 252-527-7066, Ext. 134 or email nrl@neuselibrary.org